John Bardeen

Physics American 1908 – 1991 406 quotes

Co-invented the transistor and developed the BCS theory of superconductivity, winning two Nobel Prizes in Physics.

Most quoted

"This delusion is a kind of prison for us, restricting us to our personal desires and to affection for a few persons nearest to us. Our task must be to free ourselves from this prison by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature in its beauty."

— from Attributed

"A human being is a part of a whole, called by us 'universe', a part limited in time and space. He experiences himself, his thoughts and feelings as something separated from the rest... a kind of optical delusion of his consciousness."

— from Attributed

"The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existence. One cannot help but be in awe when he contemplates the mysteries of eternity, of life, of the marvelous structure of reality."

— from Attributed

All quotes by John Bardeen (406)

The Nobel Prize was a great honor, but the real reward is the satisfaction of scientific discovery.

Acceptance Speech

I believe that science can help us solve many of the world's problems.

Public Appearance

The future of physics is bright, and I'm excited to see what new discoveries will be made.

Lecture

It's important to encourage young people to pursue careers in science.

Public Appearance

The process of scientific discovery is often messy and unpredictable.

Lecture

I always tried to approach problems with an open mind and a willingness to explore new ideas.

Interview

The most important thing in science is to ask the right questions.

Lecture

Collaboration is essential for making progress in science.

Lecture

I was always fascinated by the behavior of electrons in solids.

Interview

The development of the transistor was a testament to the power of basic research.

Lecture

It's important to be persistent and not give up when faced with challenges.

Interview

I believe that curiosity is the driving force behind all scientific progress.

Public Appearance

The transistor revolutionized electronics and laid the foundation for the information age.

Lecture

My work was always motivated by a desire to understand the fundamental principles of nature.

Interview

The scientific method is a powerful tool for uncovering the truth.

Lecture

The transistor was a truly interdisciplinary effort, involving physicists, chemists, and engineers.

Lecture

I was always a firm believer in the importance of experimental verification.

Interview

The pursuit of knowledge is a noble endeavor.

Public Appearance

The transistor opened up entirely new possibilities for technology.

Lecture

I always tried to maintain a sense of humility in my scientific work.

Interview